Full-Day Lower Gunnison River Float

The ultimate day-long fly fishing adventure.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

This trip is extremely popular and availability is very limited—don’t wait to secure your adventure. Reserve your spot in our rafts now by clicking the button below.

Overview

Lower Gunnison River Day Float Trips


Discover the beauty and serenity of the Lower Gunnison River with our fully guided drift boat trips. Perfect for anglers of all skill levels, this stretch of the river offers excellent fishing opportunities, breathtaking scenery, and a relaxing day on the water.

The Lower Gunnison is a renowned Catch & Release fishery, with Rainbow and Brown trout thriving in its Gold Medal waters. This section is ideal for those looking to enjoy a productive day of fly fishing combined with the comfort and ease of a drift boat.

The Journey

Your adventure begins at Ed’s Fly Shop in Montrose, where you’ll meet your guide and prepare for the day. Depending on your preferences, alternative meeting arrangements can be made in advance. From there, it’s a short trip to the river to start your drift.

This section of the Gunnison River features mild Class II waters, making it perfect for anglers who want to focus on fishing while enjoying a peaceful float. With clear, cold waters and excellent tailwater fishing, the Lower Gunnison is ideal for targeting big Browns and Rainbows in shadowy banks and riffles.

Trip Details

  • Drift Boat Setup: Each drift boat accommodates 2 anglers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable fishing experience.
  • Guided Experience: Your professional guide will navigate the river, offer expert advice, and handle all preparations so you can focus on fishing.
  • Lunch Included: A delicious meal is provided during the trip to keep you fueled for the day.
  • Meeting Point: Trips start at Ed’s Fly Shop in Montrose, unless otherwise arranged prior to the trip.

Why Choose the Lower Gunnison River?

  • Exceptional Fishing: Known for its healthy populations of Rainbow and Brown trout.
  • Gold Medal Waters: Offers outstanding angling opportunities with thriving fish populations.
  • Scenic Experience: Enjoy the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere of the river.
  • Accessible Adventure: A perfect day trip with easy access from Montrose.

Important Information

  • Fishing Style: Fly fishing only.
  • Fishing License: A valid Colorado fishing license is required (Link).
  • Gratuities: Not included in the trip cost.
  • Custom Arrangements: Let us know if you have specific meeting or travel needs.

Let's Fish

Experience the solitude and world-class fishing of the Lower Gunnison River.

Meeting Place

All day trips begin at Ed's Fly Shop in Montrose unless prior arrangements are made. Before your trip, your guide will give you a call to go over the details and answer any questions.

We recommend staying in Montrose, Colorado, the night before your trip and arranging to park your vehicle (if applicable) at your hotel. If you need lodging suggestions, our staff is happy to provide recommendations.

Delicious Lunch on the River

Our lunches are thoughtfully prepared, featuring fresh ingredients, hearty selections, and a touch of gourmet to keep you fueled and satisfied during your adventure.

Let us know in advance if you have any dietary needs, and we’ll gladly accommodate them. Your guide will handle all the preparations, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable meal on the river.

Travel Recommendations

Getting to Montrose

By Plane: Fly into Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), served by United, American, Southwest, and Delta airlines. We can arrange pick-up at your hotel or the airport.

By Car: Option 1:  Take I-70 to Grand Junction then Hwy 550 South Bound to Montrose.  Option 2:  Take Hwy 50 into Montrose. 

Let us know if you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans!

Alcohol Policy for Day Trips

You’re welcome to bring alcohol on day trips as long as it’s stored in unbreakable containers. We recommend consuming alcohol responsibly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Gratuity Information

Gratuity is not included in your trip cost and is entirely at your discretion. While tipping is optional, it serves as a helpful gauge of customer satisfaction for our team. If you’re ever not satisfied with your experience, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve and enhance our expeditions for future guests.

FAQs

Late Spring to Early Summer (May to June)

  • Highlights: The famous Stonefly Hatch occurs during this time, offering some of the most exciting dry fly fishing of the year. Trout are actively feeding on the surface, making it a favorite time for anglers.
  • Weather: Mild temperatures with increasing warmth as summer approaches.
  • Water Conditions: Flows can be higher due to snowmelt, but this also means the river is at its most dynamic and exhilarating.

Summer (July to August)

  • Highlights: Consistent fishing opportunities with a mix of dry fly and nymph fishing. This is also a popular time for those who enjoy the sunny, warm weather.
  • Weather: Warm days and cooler nights. Perfect for camping along the river.
  • Water Conditions: Flows stabilize, creating ideal floating and fishing conditions.

Fall (September to October)

  • Highlights: Stunning fall foliage and quieter conditions on the river. Brown trout become more active as they prepare for spawning, creating great opportunities for larger catches.
  • Weather: Cooler, crisp days and chilly nights. Layers are essential for comfort.
  • Water Conditions: Flows are typically lower, offering a more serene and intimate experience.

Your trip includes a full day of guided fishing on the Lower Gunnison River in a drift boat, all necessary terminal tackle (leader, tippet, and flies), and a delicious lunch prepared by your guide.

All trips start at Ed’s Fly Shop in Montrose, unless prior arrangements are made. Your guide will contact you before the trip to confirm details and answer any questions.

Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required for all trips. You can purchase one online before your trip, and we’ll provide a link in your confirmation email.

We recommend bringing:

  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • A hat and layered clothing for changing weather
  • Your own snacks if desired
  • A refillable water bottle (we provide water for the day)

Absolutely! While we provide terminal tackle, feel free to bring your own rod and reel.

Yes! Our experienced guides are happy to work with anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned professionals.

The Lower Gunnison River is home to Rainbow and Brown trout, with excellent opportunities to catch sizable fish thanks to the river's Gold Medal designation.

Trips typically proceed rain or shine, as fishing conditions can still be favorable during light rain. In the event of severe weather, we’ll work with you to reschedule or issue a refund.

Contact us through our website, call the shop, or visit us in Montrose to secure your spot. Spaces fill quickly, so we recommend booking early!

Ready to Go

Reserve Your Spot Today!

This trip is extremely popular and availability is very limited—don’t wait to secure your adventure. Reserve your spot in our rafts now by clicking the button below.

Embark on an unforgettable day trip as you float the scenic Lower Gunnison River. With expert guides, exceptional fishing, and breathtaking views, Ed's Fly Shop ensures a one-of-a-kind experience. Don’t miss The New Fly Fisher Show, which featured our adventures during their visit in July 2024!

Don't take our word for it

★★★★★

We had a great float on the Gunnison today with Robert from Ed’s Fly shop in Montrose. Lots of fish, a fun guide and an impressive shore lunch. We’ll be back.

Jack Witt
★★★★★

Great fly shop. Ed is awesome, & Jacob Ramirez is the best guide!

Drenda Thomas Richards
★★★★★

Great shop! Came to Ed’s fly shop to pick up some local knowledge and flys. Brandon was very helpful in setting me up with new flys and even showed me how he set them up. I met Robert and decided to book a full day trip on the Gunnison. Spectacular day! Robert was a great guide and very patient instructor! Highly recommend Ed’s Fly Shop! Looking forward to more trips in the future!

Joseph Delorenzo
★★★★★

Just finishing an awesome October trip to the Gunnison River. Our drift boat guide Robert from Ed’s Fly Shop helped make our father/daughter birthday celebration trip one to remember for a lifetime. Top notch river and fishing knowledge made our fishing experience successful. The fly shop staff is highly professional and the environment is welcoming. Will not hesitate to use Ed’s in the future.

Christopher Costanzo
★★★★★

Went an a float trip with Ed’s Fly Shop. We had a blast! Caught plenty of beautiful trout on the lower Gunnison. Kato was a great guide. He was very patient, instructive and very good at his job. I highly recommend you give them a call, check out Ed’s website or just go visit his shop in Montrose, Co. He has a wonderful variety of guided trips and a ton of quality merchandise in the store.

Lori Erickson